Heritage Railway operating since 1878

In 1878, construction commenced on the Port Augusta and Government Gums (now known as Farina, which is north of the Flinders Ranges) Railway. The line was extended to Oodnadatta in 1891 and further to Alice Springs (771 miles or 1241 km) in 1929, establishing an important rail link to Central Australia. The famous Ghan passenger train travelled this way from 1923 to 1956, and on the northern part of this route until 1980.

You can enjoy a full-day or half-day trip aboard a restored steam or heritage diesel train on the original Ghan route between Port Augusta and Quorn on the Pichi Richi Railway.

Watch gum-lined creeks, bluebush-studded hills and ancient rocky outcrops roll past at the relaxed pace of years gone by. All trains use historic steam or diesel locomotives or railcars or immaculately restored timber carriages some more than 130 years old.

Since 1973, volunteers of the Pichi Richi Railway Preservation Society continue to proudly restore and run the railway.

We operate on selected dates from March to November each year. Check our timetable, then book online or phone 1800 PR RAIL (1800 77 7245). 

COVID-19 update: 23 November 2020

South Australia's COVID-19 restrictions have eased and Pichi Richi Railway is pleased to advise that the Sundowner Explorer service will operate as scheduled on 28 November 2020. We thank our customers and volunteers for their patience.

Additionally, customers wishing to travel in 2021 are advised that bookings are now open. Please note that following Pichi Richi Railway's re-opening in June 2020, most of our train services were booked out due to strong demand and reduced capacity. We expect this may continue into 2021. To avoid disappointment you may wish to start planning your 2021 visit to Port Augusta, Quorn and the beautiful Flinders Ranges.

NSU 52 article in January 2020 Railway Digest

Young member Caleb Jenkins has his first major article featured in the January edition of the authoritative Railway Digest with some excellent photographs and information about PRR's latest operational locomotive.

Pichi Richi Railway a finalist in 2019 South Australian Tourism Awards

Pichi Richi Railway was a finalist in the 2019 South Australian Tourism Awards, and this was a huge achievement for our tireless and dedicated volunteers, supporters and passengers who for 45 years have kept us steaming through the Flinders Ranges.